Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer. For many of us, it’s the prime time to upgrade a worn-out appliance, replace a lumpy mattress, or finally refresh the patio furniture.
However, as we look for those holiday bargains, BBB® is seeing a sharp rise in deceptive tactics.
In 2026, scammers have become more sophisticated, using AI to create flawless-looking websites and emotional “limited time” hooks to catch even the most seasoned shoppers off guard. Before you click “Buy Now, ” it is essential to distinguish a genuine holiday discount from a deceptive trap.
In-Store vs. Online: What to Watch For
Whether you’re walking through the front doors of a local retailer or browsing from your tablet at home, always keep an eye out for fraudulent websites or items.
In-Store – “Going Out of Business” Ruse: We’ve all seen the neon signs claiming “Everything Must Go!” While some are legitimate, others are “zombie” sales where stores use these signs for months without ever closing. They may even bring in lower-quality merchandise specifically for the “liquidation” to trick you into thinking you’re getting a high-end brand at a steal.
BBB Tip: Always check the return policy. Legitimate liquidations are often final sales, but if the store is staying open, they should honor standard return windows.
Online – Ghost Shopping: Scammers love to impersonate big-name brands. You might see a beautiful patio set for $49—a price far below the market rate. If you buy it, you’ll likely receive a cheap pair of sunglasses instead, or nothing at all.
BBB Tip: Look closely at the URL. A scammer might use ” .net” instead of “.com.” If the price is more than 70% off, it’s a major red flag.
Your Memorial Day Shopping Checklist
To ensure your holiday weekend stays stress-free, follow the three golden rules of secure shopping.
1. Pay with a credit card. It serves as your strongest shield by allowing you to dispute charges for items that never arrive.
2. Verify the seller by visiting BBB.org to search for the company name, accreditation, and recent reviews.
3. Check for the “S” in the web address (https://). While a secure certificate isn’t a total guarantee of safety, it is a necessary starting point for any legitimate transaction.
If you’ve been the victim of a scam on social media, report it to the BBB Scam Tracker. Your report helps us build consumer awareness and reduce the effectiveness of scammers’ favorite tactics.
Have additional questions? Reach out to your BBB at 216-241-7678 or [email protected].
